Coffee farmers in Kirinyaga County are celebrating following the release of coffee payment rates that have seen the highest earners receive up to Sh157 per kilogram of cherry.
The impressive payouts have been attributed to improved management of cooperative societies and ongoing reforms in the coffee subsector.
Among the top-performing cooperative societies are Rung’eto and Baragwi, which recorded the highest rates, receiving Sh157 and Sh156 per kilogram respectively.
The development has sparked optimism among farmers, many of whom have endured years of fluctuating and often low returns.
Farmers expressed their satisfaction with the current payouts, noting that their dedication and hard work in maintaining their coffee farms is finally bearing fruit.
They praised the leadership of their respective cooperatives for ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficient management, which they say has contributed significantly to the improved earnings.
Rung’eto Coffee Cooperative Society Chairlady, Joyce Wanjiku, confirmed that farmers under her society have received between Sh155 and Sh156 per kilogram, describing the rates as encouraging and a sign of steady progress within the sector.
She noted that the society handled approximately 5.5 million kilograms of coffee this season, translating to a total payout nearing one billion shillings.
Wanjiku commended farmers for their commitment to coffee farming, observing that many have embraced the crop as a viable business venture rather than a subsistence activity.
The chairlady emphasized that farmers are now more proactive, taking the initiative to properly manage their farms without external pressure.
“I am very proud of our farmers. They have taken full responsibility for their farms and are working diligently because they understand that coffee farming is a business that can sustain them economically,” she said.
She further highlighted the strong collaboration between farmers and cooperative management, noting that this relationship has ensured timely delivery of services.
Additionally, she acknowledged the role played by reforms spearheaded by the national government, alongside support from the county government, in revitalizing the coffee sector and enhancing farmer returns.
On her part, Cecily Wanjiru from Baragwi Cooperative Society, reiterated that farmers are satisfied with the returns, stating that the output they are receiving is commensurate with the effort and investment they have put into their farms.
She added that the timely release of payments has come as a relief to many households, especially as schools prepare to reopen.
“This is our main source of income as coffee farmers, and it is our responsibility to ensure that we continue producing quality coffee,” she said.
Wanjiru also pointed out that factory directors and committee members have been instrumental in guiding farmers through regular training and extension services.
She noted that agronomists attached to the cooperatives have been advising farmers on best agricultural practices which has contributed to improved yields and quality.
Linus Muchira, a member of Rung’eto Coffee Cooperative Society, echoed these sentiments, stating that the favourable rates have renewed farmers’ morale and will likely encourage increased production in the coming seasons.
Despite the positive developments, farmers urged leaders and stakeholders to refrain from politicizing the coffee sector, warning that such interference could undermine the gains made so far.
Across the county, most cooperative societies have already announced their payments, with the lowest rate reported at Sh120 per kilogram.
Farmers now remain hopeful that continued reforms in the coffee sector, coupled with proper management would further boost their future earnings.
By Mutai Kipng’etich
